PHC vs THC: The Ultimate Cannabinoid Comparison

The world of Cannabis is vast and ever-expanding, with new cannabinoids—natural and synthetic—being discovered and added to the marijuana family regularly. Among the latest additions is PHC or Hydrox4phc, a novel compound that has intrigued cannabinoid enthusiasts. In this blog, we will explore PHC vs THC, understand what a PHC cannabinoid is, and how it differs from the other cannabinoids we are familiar with. 

Let’s begin!

What is PHC Cannabinoid?

The new kid on the block, PHC cannabinoid (Proprietary Hydrogenated Cannabinoid), is a semi-synthetic cannabinoid, derived from Delta-9 acetate. Unlike other cannabinoids, PHC weed is not naturally found in a cannabis plant. It is extracted by a specialized chemical process that involves hydrogenation to alter the structure of CBD, resulting in h4CBD. 

The PHC extraction process is complicated and highly controlled, typically involving the following steps:

• Extracting hemp-derived cannabinoids, including THC or CBD
• Triggering chemical reactions for transforming molecules
• Arranging the chemical structure to create the desired PHC compound 
• Purifying and isolating newly synthesized PHC cannabinoid

PHC cannabinoid has revolutionized the industry with its innovative approach while adhering to the Federal legal structure. Let’s take a look at the key factors that are making it a popular choice among cannabinoid enthusiasts.

• Origin: Structurally similar to THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol), synthesized from Delta-9 THC-A
• Effects: Produces relaxing effects, similar to THC
• Applications: Recreational and therapeutic uses

Legal Status: Legal in jurisdictions where THC is restricted

The innovation of PHC is a notable milestone in the cannabis industry for the following reasons. 

• A legal alternative to THC products with similar benefits but fewer legal complications.
• Promises therapeutic applications for stress and anxiety, pain relief, and overall wellness.
• Opened the doors to further research and development for a deeper understanding of a PHC cannabinoid and its effects
• Easy access for individuals looking for PHC products for wellness without legal troubles

What is THC Cannabinoid?

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the key component of marijuana that’s responsible for psychoactive reactions in the human brain associated with thinking, coordination, memory, and time perception. THC attaches to the receptors and influences them, affecting an individual’s movements, memory, thinking, coordination, sensory perceptions, and concentration. In simple terms, THC is responsible for making you feel “high” when you consume anything with marijuana or smoke it.

THC has three forms: hash oil, herbs or flowers, and hash. The herbal form, made from dried flowers, leaves, and buds from a cannabis plant, is the most popular for smoking or adding to food or drink items. Hash is a solid substance made by compressing the resin from the bud, while hash oil is extracted from the hash in the most potent form. 

Under the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), THC products are a Schedule 1 controlled substance because there’s a high likelihood of substance abuse, as excess THC affects information processing in the hippocampus, induces hallucinations, causes delusions, and affects one’s thinking abilities.

Comparing PHC vs THC

PHC or phytocannabinoid-rich cannabis contains high levels of CBD and low levels of THC. CBD comes with several health benefits, including reducing inflammation and treating chronic pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Like other cannabinoids, PHC works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of neurotransmitters and receptors responsible for regulating psychological processes. The cannabinoids activate the receptors of the ECS, CB1 and CB2. CB1 is a key part of the central nervous system and is responsible for the psychoactive reaction of THC. On the contrary, CB2 receptors are found in the immune system and are involved with inflammation and pain management. Scientists believe PHC interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors, and believe it is metabolized by the body for THC formation. 

THC, on the other hand, is the primary psychoactive constituent of cannabis and is documented to produce behavioral responses and contain antioxidants, antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. Scientists have classified THC as a cannabinoid because it interacts with the body’s receptors and controls memory, mood, and pain. THC is also used for treating neuropathic and cancer pain, and helping with appetite stimulation. What’s more, scientists have created synthetic weeds with THC properties to conduct controlled studies for medical purposes like treating chronic pain and chemotherapy-induced nausea.

PHC vs THC – Key Differences in Effects

Despite similar structure and psychoactive effects, PHC vs THC highlights unique differences. 

• Potency: Unlike Delta-9 THC, PHC is more potent and can leave an intense, long-lasting effect on the user.
• Legality: THC is found in a cannabis plant and is not legalized in all American states, while PHC products, made from hemp, are federally legal across the country if the count of delta-9 THC is less than 0.3%. 
• Usage: Scientists are researching the extensive usage of PHC based on its chemical structure and primary reports. Some positives of PHC products include pain relief, improved sleep, appetite stimulation, and anxiety and stress management. THC is also used for managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, stimulating appetite in AIDS-related anorexia, alleviating neuropathic pain, improving muscle conditions related to spasticity, improving sleep, and managing anxiety. 

However, the difference lies in the side effects. High doses of PHC can lead to dry mouth, headache, dizziness, temporary memory loss, dry eyes, and confusion. These side effects tend to wear off with time. But high intakes of THC can cause long-term adverse effects, including impaired cognitive function, structural and functional changes in the brain, increased heart rate, and the risk of developing respiratory issues.

How Does PHC Cannabinoid Affect Our Body?

PHC products strongly affect the mind and body, and you can expect a “high” that lasts for 6-12 hours, depending on the amount of intake and how you take it. People have also reported stress relief, relaxation, focus, euphoria, creativity, appetite support, and a boost in energy.

Psychoactive and Therapeutic Effects of PHC

The general feeling of “high” also helps with stress and anxiety. PHC affects the ECS, which regulates bodily functions and produces therapeutic effects on the body. You can expect to experience an uplifting mood, feeling of happiness, and a boost in energy when PHC is used in moderation. However, if you are new or sensitive to PHC products, the mental and physical effects of PHC can be more potent and leave extreme effects such as paranoia, fatigue, or anxiousness, or cause changes in brain functions. That said, the effects depend entirely on an individual’s tolerance and experience level and the potency of the products. For example, vaping and smoking can produce profound highs, while other PHC edibles have an 8+ hour high. Products like tinctures and RSOs are also super potent and used for high-strength microdosing for extreme medical cases.

How Does THC Cannabinoid Affect Our Body?

When THC enters the bloodstream, it binds to receptors in the ECS in the brain, which helps with memory, mood, and pain. It changes how the brain sends messages and can alter perception, give a feeling of euphoria, increase dopamine, and create slower reaction times. Let’s elaborate!

Understanding THC’s Impact on Mood, Mind, and Medical Conditions

• Increased Dopamine Levels: Most people use THC or medical marijuana to relax and overcome stress and anxiety. It increases dopamine levels, which lifts your mood and calms your mind. However, high doses increase confusion and lead to paranoia.
• Altered Perception of Time: THC changes how you perceive time. For instance, when “high,” minutes might feel like hours. While many enjoy the feeling, research suggests prolonged usage can lead to cognitive deficits.
• Short-Term Memory Impairment: THC affects the hippocampus, and the cognitive deficits can affect memory for hours, depending on the consumption.
• Enhanced Sensory Perception: You will often hear people, when “high,” say that the food is more flavorful, the color is brighter, or the music is sick. It’s because THC heightens their senses. It attaches cannabinoid receptors in the brain, changing how you experience things using your senses. However, studies show that an overdose of THC can increase anxiety and lead to psychotic symptoms.
• Impaired Motor Coordination: THC affects control, balance, and coordination. THC users may experience trouble walking in a straight line, slower reaction times, and difficulty focusing.
• Altered Dream Patterns: Multiple studies suggest that THC can affect your dreams because it affects the endogenous cannabinoid system, which controls sleep. Research further shows that long-term THC use reduces REM sleep and hampers sleep quality.
• Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation: Several doctors prescribe THC because it reduces chronic neuropathic pain and sclerosis symptoms. Smoked cannabis is also found to help reduce muscle stiffness and tremors. However, doctors monitor adverse effects to avoid fatigue or dizziness.
• PTSD and Anxiety Relief: Many medical practitioners suggest oral THC to people with PTSD to calm the nervous system and reduce fear and nightmares. While low doses relax the nerves, high doses can increase psychotic symptoms.
• Neuroprotective Effects: Scientists suggest that THC has neuroprotective benefits and helps to protect the brain cells from injuries. This can be an effective solution for conditions like neurodegenerative diseases, multiple sclerosis, and traumatic brain injuries. Researchers also believe that THC may help to reduce brain inflammation and slow disease progression, like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Anti-Tumor Abilities: Recent research indicates that THC may help to reduce the growth of cancer cells and restrict the spread of certain types of cancers. Although the use of THC is not yet FDA-approved for preventing tumour growth, THC is widely used for relieving cancer treatment-related pain and stimulating appetite during treatment.

Comparing PHC to Other Popular Cannabinoids

Now that we have covered the fundamentals of  PHC vs THC, let’s compare PHC’s potency to other common cannabinoids.

• Delta-9 THC: As the baseline for psychoactive potency, this is the primary compound responsible for the “high” factor in cannabis.
• Delta-8 THC: 50% potent and offers a milder psychoactive effect than delta-9 THC.
• HHC: Hexahydrocannabinol, or HHC, is around 80% potent as delta-9 and slightly less intense than delta-9
• Delta-10 THC: Known to enhance focus and boost energy without the “stoned” feeling

THCP: Most potent cannabinoid, 33 times more powerful than delta-9 THC.

How PHC Stacks Up Against CBD, Delta-8, CBG, and More

Conclusion

In the battle of PHC vs THC, the ultimate cannabinoid will depend on the psychoactive effect and the experience the user wants to experience. If you are looking for psychoactive cannabinoids without a high impact, just to relax your nerves and experience euphoria, the PHC cannabinoid would be a great choice. With such variety, you can find the one that meets your needs. Just make sure to follow the local laws and regulations to avoid legal hassles.